Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a spacious national park filled with history and natural beauty.
Spanning 65 hectares, this vast garden once housed over 200 noble residences during the Edo period. Today, visitors can enjoy the remnants of this history alongside beautiful seasonal scenery.
The garden is also home to important cultural sites, including the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which is open to the public for free, as well as the Sento Imperial Palace, Omiya Imperial Palace, and Kyoto State Guest House.
In this guide, we’ll introduce the highlights of Kyoto Gyoen, a place where locals come to relax, stroll, and enjoy outdoor activities, all while exploring its rich history. We’ll also share recommended spots nearby to help you plan your Kyoto trip.
What Is Kyoto Gyoen National Garden?
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a vast park covering a total area of 92 hectares, with 65 hectares dedicated to its green spaces.
In the past, this area was home to over 140 residences of noble families. It was transformed into a park during the Meiji period, marking the beginning of its current form.
Initially managed by the Imperial Household Ministry, the park’s jurisdiction was transferred to the Ministry of the Environment after the ministry’s dissolution. Post-World War II, Kyoto Gyoen was designated a National Garden.
Today, the garden features historical landmarks like the Kyoto Imperial Palace, facilities for public use such as tennis courts and rest areas, and sites of historical significance, including Hamaguri Gate, which witnessed clashes between the Tokugawa shogunate and pro-Imperial forces during the Edo period.
With over 500 plant species and nearly 50,000 trees, Kyoto Gyoen is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and birdwatching, offering visitors a chance to enjoy both nature and history.
The History of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
The origins of Kyoto Gyoen trace back to the Heian period when the Imperial Palace, known as the Dairi, was located in the western part of Kyoto, near present-day Senbon Street.
After several devastating fires made rebuilding at the original site impossible, temporary palaces called sato-dairi were established. Over time, these locations changed, but in 1392, during the Nanboku-cho period, the Todoin Tsuchimikado Palace became the Imperial residence under Emperor Komyo.
As time passed, the palace grounds expanded from their original size of 4,500 tsubo (approximately 15,000 square meters). Despite suffering damage from events like the Onin War and other conflicts during the Warring States period, the palace was restored by Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and later rebuilt by the Tokugawa shogunate. The current Imperial Palace, built in 1855 during the Ansei era, remains as a legacy of this history.
Until the Meiji period, the surrounding area was a town filled with residences of Imperial family members and court nobles. When the capital moved to Tokyo, these estates were abandoned, and the area fell into disrepair. Concerned about its decline, Emperor Meiji and figures like Iwakura Tomomi advocated for the preservation of the Imperial Palace and its surroundings. This led to the removal of vacant noble residences and the establishment of the grounds, laying the foundation for today’s Kyoto Gyoen.
In 1947, Kyoto Gyoen, along with Hibiya Park and Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo, was designated a National Garden under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Since 1971, the Ministry of the Environment has managed the park, focusing on preserving its natural beauty and historical significance.
Visitor Information for Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
- Address: Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Maps
- Phone: +81-75-211-6364
- Closed: Open year-round (except certain facilities)
- Hours: Open 24/7 (except certain facilities)
- Admission: Free (except certain facilities)
- Official Website: Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Kyoto Gyoen is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of facilities and attractions.
The garden’s expansive grounds include sports facilities, rest areas, tea houses, and historical landmarks. While most paths are gravel, the western side features flat, paved paths, making it wheelchair-accessible and suitable for those with mobility challenges.
The park also provides accessible parking spaces and multipurpose restrooms. Multilingual maps and guides are available, making it convenient for international visitors.
Spanning 1.3 km north to south and 0.7 km east to west, this large national garden is best explored in comfortable walking shoes.
Exploring the Kyoto Imperial Palace
A must-see within Kyoto Gyoen is the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which served as the residence of Japan’s Emperors from 1331 to 1869.
The palace is generally open to the public free of charge, though it is closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays. Visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an earlier closing time of 4:00 PM during certain seasons.
Visitors are required to undergo a brief bag check and wear a visitor pass during their visit. No advance reservations are needed, making it easy to include a stop here during your exploration of Kyoto Gyoen.
How to Access the Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, home to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, is located in the heart of Kyoto City, in Kamigyo Ward.
The garden is about a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, a central hub for sightseeing. From nearby bus stops or train stations, it’s just a 5-minute walk to one of the garden’s gates, which are open for free entry and exit.
Getting to the Kyoto Imperial Palace
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line to Imadegawa Station. Walk 3 minutes.
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line to Marutamachi Station. Walk 3 minutes.
- From Hankyu Karasuma Station: Take the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line to Imadegawa Station. Walk 3 minutes.
- From Keihan Jingu-Marutamachi Station: Walk 15 minutes.
- From Keihan Demachiyanagi Station: Walk 20 minutes.
Getting to Kyoto Station from Other Major Areas
- From Kansai International Airport: Take the JR Haruka Express (Airport Express). Approx. 75 minutes.
- From Itami Airport (Osaka): Take the Osaka Airport Limousine Bus. Approx. 55 minutes.
- From JR Tokyo Station: Take the Nozomi Shinkansen. Approx. 2 hours 10 minutes.
- From JR Sannomiya Station (Kobe): Take a Limited Express train. Approx. 51 minutes.
- From JR Osaka Station: Take a JR Special Rapid Service train. Approx. 29 minutes.
- From JR Nara Station: Take the Miyakoji Rapid Service. Approx. 47 minutes.
Highlights of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Kyoto Gyoen offers a wealth of attractions, including seasonal natural beauty, historical landmarks, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which preserves the architecture of the former Imperial residence.
Take a stroll through this expansive garden to enjoy both nature and history in one visit.
1. Free Entry to Historical Sites: Kaninnomiya Residence and Hamaguri Gate
Kyoto Gyoen was once home to many residences of Imperial family members and noble households, especially during the Edo period.
In the Meiji era, when the capital moved to Tokyo, most of these homes were relocated. However, the Kaninnomiya Residence remains as a rare historical structure from that era. Previously used as the Kyoto branch office of the Imperial Household Ministry, it has been carefully restored, including its traditional garden.
The residence, once occupied by Prince Kanin Kotohito until his relocation to Tokyo in 1877, is open to the public for free. Visitors can explore the exhibitions in the four restored buildings and admire the seasonal beauty of the garden from its veranda.
One of the nine gates of Kyoto Gyoen, Hamaguri Gate, officially named Shinzaike Gate, is rich in historical significance.
Its unique name originates from an incident during the Great Tenmei Fire of 1788. The gate, which had remained closed for centuries, suddenly opened due to the heat of the fire, much like a clam opening its shell.
Today, the gate serves as an entrance to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and stands as an important historical landmark.
It also played a pivotal role in the Kinmon Incident (also known as the Hamaguri Gate Rebellion) of 1864, a battle between Imperial loyalists and the Tokugawa shogunate. Visitors can still see bullet holes in the gate, remnants of the fierce fighting that occurred there.
Kyoto Gyoen is a place where natural beauty and history blend seamlessly, offering an enriching experience for all visitors.
2. Explore Nature Through the Seasons
Kyoto Gyoen is a vast garden filled with natural beauty, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and seasonal strolls.
In spring, the plum grove with over 200 trees signals the start of the season. As temperatures rise, the garden comes alive with the sweet scent of blooming peach blossoms, and cherry trees such as weeping cherry (shidare-zakura) and mountain cherry (yamazakura) burst into color.
The garden transforms into a cheerful, refreshing space, with pink cherry blossoms fluttering in the air. Spring is the perfect time to walk around and enjoy the flowers in the mild weather.
As summer arrives, small streams sparkle in the sunlight, and the garden turns vibrant green. The sound of cicadas buzzing in the background adds to the feeling of summer.
When I visited in early July, the temperature exceeded 30°C (86°F), but the shaded paths under the trees provided a cool and pleasant escape from the heat. For summer visits, take advantage of shaded rest areas to stay comfortable while exploring.
Autumn brings comfortable weather and stunning views of colorful foliage. Large ginkgo trees turn a brilliant yellow, while maple trees glow bright red.
The Mother and Child Forest is a great spot for admiring the autumn leaves while enjoying the earthy scent of fallen leaves. As the season peaks, the air is filled with the fragrance of osmanthus flowers, and the sounds of crickets enhance the sensory experience of autumn.
Kyoto Gyoen has three free rest areas, offering convenient stops during your visit.
One of the most popular is the Nakadachiuri Rest Area, located north of Nakadachiuri Gate. Surrounded by trees, it provides a peaceful forest-like atmosphere. During spring and autumn, you can sit on the terrace and enjoy a view of the Kyoto Imperial Palace while taking a break.
The rest area also features shops selling Kyoto specialties, a restaurant, and an information corner. With warm wooden interiors, the space offers a cozy environment to relax.
Additional facilities include wheelchair rentals and coin lockers, making it a convenient spot for various needs. Whether you’re seeking a quick rest or a leisurely break, this area has something for everyone.
3. Explore the Rich History of the Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) is a must-see for history enthusiasts, with its beautifully preserved buildings and serene gardens. Among the highlights is the Shishinden, the largest structure in the palace grounds, once serving as the main hall of the emperor’s residence.
With its impressive cypress-bark roof and traditional Japanese architectural style, the Shishinden was built over a century ago. This sacred space hosted important imperial ceremonies, such as enthronements and other significant rites.
At the front of the Shishinden is the striking Shomeimon Gate, painted in vivid red. The hall stands behind the white-sand South Garden, maintaining a sense of grandeur and reverence.
Inside the Shishinden, you can glimpse the Takamikura Throne, where the emperor would sit, and the Michodai, the empress’s seat. In spring, the cherry tree on the left (Sakon no Sakura) and the mandarin orange tree on the right (Ukon no Tachibana) bloom, adding seasonal charm to this historical site.
Visitors are welcome to take photos of the Shishinden, but please be mindful not to include other tourists in your shots.
To the northwest of the Shishinden lies the Seiryoden, which once served as the emperor’s living quarters. Unlike the open design of the Shishinden, the Seiryoden has partitioned rooms, as it was originally used as a residence.
Some notable rooms include the Hinonoma-shi, where the emperor conducted daily activities, and the Yoruno-otodo, used as a sleeping chamber. While entry into the building is not allowed, you can view its details from outside as you stroll around.
Surrounding the palace are several scenic gardens designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics. A standout is the Oniwaike Garden, located near the Ogakumonsho and Kogosho buildings. This garden, centered around a large pond, was created by Kobori Enshu, a famous architect, painter, and garden designer.
The pond features small islands connected by stone bridges, and on clear days, the surrounding trees reflect beautifully on the water’s surface. It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate the artistry of Japanese landscaping.
Another garden, the Onyatei Garden, lies east of the Otsunegoten building. It incorporates a flowing waterway called a Yatsumizu, surrounded by pine trees and other seasonal plants. The garden also features a charming tea house called Kintai, a 4.5-mat tatami room perfect for quiet contemplation.
In autumn, the gardens come alive with vibrant reds and yellows, making it a hidden gem for viewing fall foliage. Whether you’re exploring the gardens or admiring the architecture, the Kyoto Imperial Palace offers a blend of history and natural beauty that’s truly captivating.
Recommended Attractions Near the Kyoto Imperial Palace
The area around the Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gyoen) is home to several unique and fascinating shrines. From the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the god of learning, to spiritual power spots, these destinations offer both cultural depth and charm.
Shrines in the area include one dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a legendary figure in Japanese folklore and onmyodo (traditional cosmology), and another that enshrines the deity of sports, said to bring blessings to athletes. Pairing a stroll through the beautiful Kyoto Gyoen with visits to these shrines is a perfect way to enjoy both nature and history.
1. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – A Popular Spot for Students Seeking Success
Located about 15 minutes from the Kyoto Imperial Palace by city bus, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a must-visit destination for those interested in history and culture.
As the central shrine of the Tenjin Faith, Kitano Tenmangu attracts visitors from across Japan. Established over 1,000 years ago, its main hall is designated as a National Treasure and showcases stunning architectural details.
The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. During exam season, many students and their families visit to pray for academic success.
One of the shrine’s architectural highlights is the main hall, which consists of interconnected sections: the Honden (main hall), Ishino-ma, Haiden, and Raku-no-ma. Rebuilt in 1607, the structure reflects the opulent style of the Momoyama Period.
In front of the main hall stands the Sanko-mon Gate, a symbol of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Its name, which means “Three Lights Gate,” comes from carvings of the sun, moon, and stars on its beams. However, there’s an interesting twist—the gate is also known as the Starless Sanko-mon Gate because the star is deliberately left incomplete.
According to legend, this design aligns with the starry sky above the gate, blending with the celestial North Star to symbolically protect the ancient capital of Heian-kyo. The gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property, is a striking example of intricate craftsmanship, complete with an inscription written by Emperor Gonara.
Visitor Information for Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
- Address: Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from Keifuku Railway’s Kitano Hakubaicho Station
- 15 minutes by city bus (routes 50 or 101) from JR Kyoto Station; get off at “Kitano Tenmangu-mae”
- Hours:
- April–September: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM
- October–March: 5:30 AM–5:30 PM (extended hours for special events like illuminations)
- Admission: Free (Separate fees apply for treasure halls, plum blossom gardens, and maple gardens)
- Phone: 075-461-0005
- Official Website: Kitano Tenmangu
Seimei Shrine: A Powerful Spiritual Spot Honoring Abe no Seimei
Seimei Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine founded in 1007 by Emperor Ichijo to honor the achievements of Abe no Seimei, a renowned figure in Japanese folklore.
When first established, the shrine covered a vast area, stretching from Horikawa Street in the east to Kuromon Street in the west, and from Motoseiganji Street in the north to Nakadachiuri Street in the south. Today, it is much smaller but remains a significant cultural and spiritual site.
Abe no Seimei, famous for his knowledge of astronomy and ability to control shikigami (spiritual entities), is enshrined here as the deity. The shrine is known as a power spot and is said to provide blessings for protection against evil and misfortune.
While many visit Seimei Shrine for its powers of purification and protection, it is also popular with athletes. Even Olympic athletes have visited to pray for success in competitions.
One unique feature of the shrine is the pentagram symbol—called the Seimei Kikyō—which appears on the torii gate and the main hall. This five-pointed star, representing Seimei’s mystical abilities, sets the shrine apart from others.
Exploring the entire shrine takes only about 15 minutes, making it a great spot to visit during a busy day of sightseeing.
One of the shrine’s highlights is the Seimei Well, a spring said to have been created by Abe no Seimei through his mystical powers. This well is famously associated with Sen no Rikyu, the master of Japanese tea ceremonies, who reportedly used its water for making tea.
Even today, the well continues to produce fresh, drinkable water, which is believed to bring blessings for health and recovery from illness.
Visitor Information for Seimei Shrine
- Address: 806 Seimeicho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Map
- Access: 2-minute walk from the “Ichijo Modoribashi/Seimei Shrine-mae” bus stop on the city bus line
- Hours: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
- Admission: Free
- Phone: 075-441-6460
- Official Website: Seimei Shrine
Shiramine Shrine: A Sacred Spot for Ball Games and Sports
Located just a short walk from the “Horikawa Imadegawa” bus stop or about a 5-minute walk from Seimei Shrine, Shiramine Shrine is a unique destination in Kyoto. This shrine enshrines Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Junnin and is famous for its connection to sports, especially ball games.
Shiramine Shrine is home to Seidai Myojin, the god of ball games such as kemari (an ancient Japanese sport similar to hacky sack). This connection has made it a popular spot not only for traditional sports enthusiasts but also for modern-day soccer players and fans.
Students, athletes, and professionals often visit this shrine to pray for success in competitions or exams, making it a well-known power spot for those seeking victory.
The shrine gained attention during the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, when it was featured in media coverage.
Inside the main hall, you’ll find a collection of autographs and offerings from famous soccer players and athletes involved in various sports. This unique feature makes Shiramine Shrine a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
The shrine also sells sports-themed charms, including magnet charms and wearable wristbands, which make for perfect souvenirs or gifts for sports lovers.
Shiramine Shrine
- Address: 261 Asukai-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access:
- A short walk from the “Horikawa Imadegawa” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus lines 9 or 101)
- About a 5-minute walk from Seimei Shrine
- Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Phone: 075-441-3810
- Official Website: Shiramine Shrine
Kyoto Gyoen is a vast national garden located in the center of Kyoto. It offers visitors a serene space to stroll among nature and explore historical landmarks, making it a versatile destination with something for everyone.
One of the main attractions is the Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho), a beautifully preserved site that was once home to the Imperial family. Open to the public year-round and free of charge, it’s a must-see spot for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Take your time to explore this historic park and immerse yourself in the beauty of its nature and heritage.
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